Bristol Palin

After hitting the jackpot in Season 11 with a buzz-laden group that included lightning rod Bristol Palin, the “Dancing With the Stars” casting directors had their work cut out for them. Could they top themselves in Season 12?

Apparently not.

The 11-person cast announced Monday night during “The Bachelor,” at first glance, is lacking in the “wow” factor. Yes, there’s former “Cheers” (and “Fat Actress”) star Kirstie Alley. (Um, that could be interesting). And popular former boxing champ Sugar Ray Leonard brings some charisma and name appeal. But after them, you might find yourself stifling some yawns and/or asking “Who?”

Alas, wayward sitcom star Charlie Sheen will not be donning sequins and kicking up his heels. But here are the other celebs who will:

I’ve tried not to allow myself to get caught up in all the furor surrounding “Dancing With the Stars” in recent weeks. It is just a cheesy reality TV show, after all. The nation’s democracy is not in jeopardy. At least I don’t think it is.

Still, like a lot of people, I’m curious to see if Bristol Palin can continue to defy the odds and capture that hideous mirror-ball trophy. But, really, it can’t happen — can it?

Any unbiased fan who watched the exquisite performances of Jennifer Grey last night knows that the trophy belongs to the “Dirty Dancing” sweetheart. Lord, it’s not even close. But then again, I thought Bristol’s mother would disappear from sight after the 2008 election and we all know how that prediction turned out.

So what do you think? Can Bristol pull the stunning upset? Does Jennifer have it in the bag? … Or are you more worried about your caloric intake on Thursday?